Mix a solution of white vinegar and alum (8:1 ratio). Alum can be found in the spice section. Using a small craft paintbrush, write your message(s) on the shells of eggs. Boil eggs to hard. The writing will appear on the whites of the eggs when they are shelled.
How much alum should I use when canning pickles?
By Pam
Your pickle recipes should tell you this information, or else google it. I'm sure the amount depends on the recipe.
Try this site. It may help answer your question.
www.four-h.purdue.edu/
Pam, read this below on alum in pickling. Also this is a good home canning site. Backwoods Home Magazine for self-reliant living. www.backwoodshome.com/articles/clay53.html
www.ask.com/
It is a chemical made with aluminum that crisps pickles. You have to be careful though and make sure it gets rinsed off because it is potentially dangerous. 1 oz ingested has been known to kill an adult.
Is alum an effective substance for soaking swollen body parts?
By Alfred from Rochester, NY
Off hand I am going to say no because alum is an astringent and is generally used to stop bleeding or, among other uses, is used in the pickling of foods. :-0 I would highly recommend Epsom Salts instead!
What other uses does alum have around the house besides cleaning a dirty bathtub?
By Holly from Lancaster, WI
Alum is excellent for sprinkling into all types of shoes. It helps to eliminate the odor of sweaty feet.
I believe it is also used for drying flowers.
I have used alum for canker sores in the mouth. And I have used alum for making pickles, it will keep the cucumbers from getting soft.
Yes, I do the pickles (all part of dilling) and the alum for mouth sores, whether you bit the cheek/tongue, braces catch it, or even a sore throat issue, it has healing agents. Granted, you won't keep it in very long. Make a little pinch fit in the cheek area, stand over the sink as long as you can, you droll some, when you can't stand it, spit and rinse with warm water.
Powdered alum works wonders on blemishes and canker sores, and can be found in pencil or block form as well as the spice can we're more familiar with. Apply from the stick or mix the spice with a little water, leaving it on overnight for almost instant results.
